Easy Homemade Bread

 

Ingredients:

 

  • 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions:

 

1. Activate the Yeast:

In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it turns foamy, indicating the yeast is active.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

3. Combine the Ingredients:

Pour the yeast mixture into the flour and mix until a sticky dough forms. If using olive oil or melted butter, add it at this stage.

4. Knead the Dough:

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

5. First Rise:

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

6. Shape the Dough:

Once risen, punch down the dough to remove excess air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.

7. Second Rise:

Cover again and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes until it doubles in size.

8. Bake the Bread:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

9. Cool and Serve:

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.


Variations:

 

Herb Bread: Mix in 2 tbsp of dried herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Garlic Bread: Add crushed garlic to the dough or brush with garlic butter before baking.

Whole Wheat Bread: Replace part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier loaf.

Cheese Bread: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

Honey Bread: Swap sugar for honey for a slightly sweet taste.


Tips for Perfect Bread:

Kneading: Proper kneading (8-10 minutes) develops gluten, giving the bread its structure.

Proofing: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place, covered to prevent drying.

Baking: Preheat the oven fully before baking. Placing a pan of water in the oven can create steam for a better crust.

Cooling: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from becoming gummy.

Storing: Keep in a bread box or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel. For long-term storage, slice and freeze in an airtight container or bag. Toast frozen slices as needed.

 

Enjoy your homemade bread!

 

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